Escaped Hornbill “Pilly” Safely Returned to The Living Desert

The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is sharing good news tonight after one of its most recognizable residents made a brief escape. Pilly, a southern ground hornbill, was safely recovered and returned to the zoo after wandering off the grounds last Thursday.

Zoo officials say Pilly was located this morning at the Vintage Country Club following multiple reported sightings from local residents and animal care staff. Trained staff were able to recapture the bird without incident, and she was found to be unharmed.

The zoo thanked the community for keeping an eye out and reporting sightings, which helped lead to Pilly’s safe return. Southern ground hornbills are large, ground-dwelling birds known for their distinctive appearance.